Dr. Vince Kellen on the Metabolism of Knowledge and AI
What does it mean to “metabolize knowledge” in an era of rapidly evolving artificial intelligence? Dr. Vince Kellen, Chief Information Officer at UC San Diego, explored this question in our most recent AI in Practice webinar, diving into the strategic use of AI in higher education and its potential for transforming institutional knowledge.
Dr. Kellen’s talk introduced the concept of vertical AI versus horizontal AI agents, distinguishing between AI models designed for broad applications and those tailored specifically to an institution’s unique data and needs. He shared UC San Diego’s TritonGPT initiative, which applies AI to enhance university operations, instructional design, and knowledge management. By focusing on smaller, more specialized AI models, his team is developing strategies to create highly contextual, efficient, and sustainable AI ecosystems for higher education.
One of the key takeaways from the session was that AI should amplify, not replace, human expertise. Institutions must invest in AI that enhances critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making rather than simply automating tasks. Dr. Kellen also emphasized that universities need AI tailored to their communities. Rather than adopting generic AI models, institutions benefit from vertical AI agents, which integrate institution-specific data for strategic advantage. He framed AI knowledge metabolism as an ongoing process, much like an ecosystem, where AI systems must continuously process, refine, and optimize information to ensure relevance and adaptability over time.
About the Series
The AI in Practice webinar series is a collaborative initiative between CELTT, UBalt’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI), the Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Maryland Baltimore County. This partnership brings together diverse perspectives to explore how AI is reshaping education, research, and institutional strategy. If you missed this webinar with Dr. Vince Kellen, you can watch it here on YouTube. Our next session will be with Dr. Nick Potkalitsky on March 12, 2025 at 12pm EST. Register here to save your spot!
